Wat Arun (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Wat Arun?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor pays a low fee, can linger for photos, climb the steep prang, join free English meditation, and move at own pace; only midday heat and few shaded seats lower comfort.
Positives:
- Quiet mornings: Arrive at 8 AM to beat crowds and find secluded photo spots.
- Riverside access: Take the local ferry for a scenic approach and easy return.
- Free cultural insight: Explore the Chakri dynasty temple and its historical displays.
Challenges:
- Steep staircases: The prang stairs are narrow; use handrails and go slowly.
- Limited shade: Bring water and sun protection—covered spots are scarce.
- Basic facilities: Restrooms are simple; no lockers or baby-changing rooms are available.
What is Wat Arun?
- A Buddhist temple complex on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok Yai District
- One of the few surviving temples from Thailand’s Chakri dynasty
- Dominated by a central Khmer-style prang clad in glazed porcelain tiles and seashells
What is so special about Wat Arun for solo trip?
- Solo-friendly climb of the central prang for top city and river views
- Free English meditation sessions in a quiet corner
- Compact grounds ideal for a focused 2–3-hour visit
- Riverside ferry adds a local transport experience
- Porcelain tile mosaics offer unique photo opportunities
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to climb the prang, explore grounds, and join a meditation session without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Wat Arun
Climb the central prang:
Ascend the Khmer-style tower for panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok skyline.
Tip: Buy your 100 THB ticket at opening (8 AM) and wear sturdy shoes for steep steps.
Attend the meditation session:
Join free English meditation at Wat Arun Meditation Center tucked behind the main grounds.
Tip: Sessions run daily 9 AM–5 PM; check the board near the ordination hall for start times.
Capture porcelain tile details:
Examine and photograph the glazed tiles and seashell mosaics up close along the lower terraces.
Tip: Bring a zoom or macro lens and arrive early for soft morning light.
Sunset riverside photo walk:
Stroll the riverside terrace at dusk to frame the lit temple against the golden sky.
Tip: Stay until after sunset for colorful LED lighting on the prang façade.
When is the best time to visit Wat Arun (Bangkok, Thailand)?
Visit November–February for cooler mornings and clear skies. Join Loy Krathong in November or Songkran in April for festival ceremonies.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Wat Arun (Bangkok)
Natalie Veronica
Don’t skip Wat Arun if you plan to take photos in traditional Thai outfits! Best to come around 4 PM or later, it’s less crowded. Entrance fee is 200 baht per person. Outside the temple, there are lots of shops renting outfits at affordable prices. I got a photography package for 2 people at 1800 baht, including free hairdo. I went go-show and luckily got a great photographer who guided all the po...
Ibob Pramadi
This temple houses the ashes of Thailand’s first King Rama. The boat ride along the river to the temple is enjoyable. You can feed the big catfish with bread sold on the boat for just 20 baht. There isn’t a whole lot to see, and it’s not the most visually stunning temple, but it becomes the perfect photo spot if you rent traditional Thai clothing, make up and take pictures around the grounds. It...
Kamilla
The main attraction of Wat Arun is the central prang, with other prangs/pagodas around it. It's a very unique and detailed structure. If you look close enough, you can see each piece of porcelain/other elements. They don't always match, but somehow they make a cohesive and colorful mosaic. Climbing it can be quite an exercise, but it's worth it. The visitors have an option to dress up in traditio...
Anjo
Wat Arun Temple located alongside the Chao Praya River is one of the most Thailandesque locations that you can visit. If there is one thing Thailand is known for popularly aside from Elephants and Muay Thai it is temples. Wat Arun is one of the best aesthetic temples you can visit while in Bangkok. •Wat Arun towers with its heritage seen in the intricate temples designed by previous monarchs, wit...
sai kiran
Wat Arun is absolutely stunning — the detailed architecture and colorful tiles amazed me! Climbing the steep steps gave a great view of the river and Bangkok skyline. It’s peaceful, especially in the early morning when it's less crowded. I took a short ferry ride to reach it, which added to the fun. A must-visit if you're in Bangkok for the first time!
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entrance fee | THB 100 |
| Sarong deposit (refundable) | THB 20 |
| River ferry round-trip | THB 8 |
| Total Estimated | THB 128 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Wat Arun
- Early entry: Get here before 9 AM for softer light, lower temperatures, and clear views.
- Combo temple tour: Pair with a visit to Wat Pho via Tha Tien Pier for a full riverside temple day.
- Golden hour shots: Plan your photo walk at sunset to catch the temple’s LED illumination.
Map of Wat Arun
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand
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About Wat Arun
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+66 2 891 2185
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